Kabuwanan ni Nena: Pregnancy Experiences of Early Adolescent Mothers in Metro Manila, Philippines

Abstract

This research study presents a descriptive analysis of the experiences of early adolescent mothers who gave birth when they were 10 to 15 years old. The investigation developed as a knowledge generation partnership with the Likhaan Center for Women’s Health. As the issue of adolescent pregnancy continues to be a challenge globally and locally, the research posits the idea that early pregnancy is not only a health concern but also influenced by the sociocultural, economic, and political environments surrounding early adolescent girls in urban poor neighborhoods. Using online ethnography, photovoice, and online diaries as methods, the study reflects those multilayered aspects suggested by the socioecological model of McLeroy et al. (1988). Results reveal how various influencers—i.e., family, peers,community,and laws—have directly and indirectly impacted on an early adolescent girl’s perceptions and knowledge of relationship building, awareness of reproductive health issues, abrupt transition into the role of being a new mother, and in planning towards her and her child’s future. The study contributes to the limited research on the younger batches of adolescent mothers and will be the basis for developing teen-centered policies and programs for adolescent reproductive and
sexual health.